Ghana
The seventh international “Fascination of Plants Day” around 18 May 2024 will be launched by plant scientists across the world under the umbrella of the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO).
The goal of this activity is to get as many people as possible around the world fascinated by plants and enthused about the importance of plant science for agriculture and sustainable production of nutritious food, as well as for horticulture, forestry and the production of plant-based non-food products such as paper, timber, chemicals, energy and pharmaceuticals. The role of plants in environmental conservation is also a key message.
Eco parks are protected natural spaces designed to conserve biodiversity and provide a sustainable environment for both wildlife and humans. They serve as habitats for various species, supporting ecosystems that might otherwise be threatened by urbanization and industrialization. Eco parks are crucial for educating the public about environmental conservation and promoting eco-friendly practices. They help mitigate climate change by preserving forests and wetlands, which act as carbon sinks. For animals, eco parks offer safe havens, ensuring the survival of endangered species and maintaining ecological balance. For humans, they provide recreational spaces that promote well-being and connection with nature. The future of eco parks lies in their potential to expand, playing a vital role in global conservation efforts and fostering a deeper respect for the environment. In essence, eco parks are vital for sustaining biodiversity, combating climate change, and promoting a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
Tomato and Garden Eggs are food security crops providing nourishment to prevent malnutrition among rural poor in developing countries. Understanding the reaction of plant cultivars to viral diseases is a prerequisite for resistance breeding. Two cultivars of the solanaceous plants namely tomatoes and eggplant were physically challenged with viral isolate through mechanical sap inoculation and grafting by Plant Biology Undergraduate Students of the Department of Plant and Environmental Biology, University of Ghana.
The aim was to identify resistant cultivars that could be utilized in breeding programmes.